HomeMy WebLinkAbout1998-12-15 Coolidge School Council MinutesA.W. Coolidge
School Council
Minutes from meeting on Tuesday, December 15, 1998
Members present at meeting:
Mary Ann Kozlowski
Chris Moulton
John Doherty
Marie Pink
Diane Blume
Ann Fisher
Walter Begonis
Dennis Richards
Meeting began at 4:05pm
Chairperson
Secretary
Assistant Superintendent
MINUTES FROM NOVEMBER 9TH MEETING READ AND APPROVED
DENNIS RICHARD - GUEST SPEAKER
P 3: 5 3
Dennis was introduced and welcomed. Dennis spoke about the Reading Public
Schools Curriculum Initiative Program. He detailed how this process came about and
how it provides the much needed supplies (textbooks) & professional development for
teachers. Dennis informed us that teachers were very appreciative of this program.
MCAS Test results were also discussed. Dennis also explained of a plan to change
the all around structure of the High School Curriculum to meet the frame works.
PRINCIPAL REPORT
John opened up with an update of the building project. He explained that things
were moving along quicker than expected. The foundation and footings were being
poured, the gym is being started and that during Christmas vacation the Library would
be started. He also explained that during the construction phase of the Gym that
Physical Education would be done in classrooms and the halls. A weight room will be
set up for use.
In relation to the health issues surrounding this project it has been reported by the
school nurse that there is no increase in health reported complaints since the start of
the project. An industrial Hygienist and Clerk of the Works will hold a question and
answer meeting on December 21st with staff to address any concern they have
regarding safety and health issues. The dust analysis results were great and John is
trying to keep everyone informed.
Budget issues were discussed. John explained the need for increase staffing of 3
teachers to increase the teams from 1-1/2 to 2 for the incoming a grade class. This
will avoid having 30 students in each classroom. Cost $100,000.00. This will be
presented to the_ school committee during the budget meetings process.
John reported that teachers felt very positive about the November 20"' teacher
inservice day. There was a lot of team building through out the staff.
MCAS test results were discussed. Went over the breakdown and how to read the
results. We viewed where our strengths and weaknesses were and what we could build
on. This breakdown will be very helpful to teachers when planning their lessons and
questions for exams.
The 6"' grade Stanford test results were viewed. Teachers will be viewing these and
addressing students and helping them build on their weaknesses.
Inclusion plan was viewed. Parental involvement was added. Plan was approved by
all staff.
OTHER ITEMS
SCHOOL WIDE SURVEY
Mary Ann Kozlowski presented this survey and discussion focused around how we
could best get a survey written and delivered to the Coolidge Community. Suggestions
of an incentive to return survey was brought up. Plan for 3 separate surveys are to be
delivered. One to the students, one to the staff and one to the parents. Marie Pink and
Diane Blume to take responsibility for putting together survey for students. John
Doherty to do staff survey and Ann Fisher and Mary Ann Kozlowski to modify parents
survey.
DISCIPLINE ISSUES
John informed council that discipline is being handled wonderfully by Bob Peterson.
Appropriate timing of consequences are being delivered to students when it is needed,
and this is working out well.
NEXT MEETING: Tuesday, January 26"' at 4PM
Meeting adjourned at 5:45pm